Everyone has a role to play in creating a respectful and inclusive University community, and our new Meeting Etiquette Guidance provides practical support to help ensure every voice is heard and valued.
Creating a safe, welcoming and inclusive University community is everyone's responsibility. The way we communicate and work together matters, whether that's in the classroom, at committee meetings, in student groups, or during University discussions.
To help support positive and respectful interactions, the University has introduced new Meeting Etiquette Guidance as part of the Dignity at Work and Study Toolkit. The guidance is designed to help meeting chairs and students in leadership positions create a positive environment where everyone feels able to contribute and be heard.
The guidance sets out clear expectations for behaviour in formal meetings and offers practical advice on how to manage discussions constructively. It also includes support for participants, helping them recognise and respond to behaviour that falls below expected standards in a respectful and appropriate way.
A new has also been developed for use at the start of formal meetings. This helps remind everyone of the standards expected and includes a QR code linking directly to further guidance and resources. The toolkit also provides example phrases that can be used to respectfully challenge inappropriate behaviour and keep discussions productive.
To complement the guidance, the University is offering a short training session, Running Effective and Inclusive Meetings, which provides practical tips for leading engaging, productive and inclusive meetings. Students in leadership roles, such as society committees, student representatives and group leaders, are encouraged to take part.
Initial training sessions will take place on 12 November (in person) and 17 November (online), with places available through the Course Booking system.
By working together and treating one another with dignity and respect, we can continue to create a University community where everyone feels valued, included and able to contribute confidently.